Using the perlinNoise() method of ActionScript’s BitmapData class is a nice way of simulating natural patterns (like wood grain and clouds). I’ve used it here to create the landscape for a game level. The different light intensities define different heights.

Press P to recreate the landscape.
Press R to place rocks.
Press G to place ground cover (grass and stuff).

Perlin noise used to create game landscapes.

You’ll need to install Flash Player 10 to run this.